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1. What is the purpose of permits and codes?

The purpose behind building codes is to give reasonable assurance that a home is safe from structural failure, fire hazards from electrical and heating systems, electrical shock and health risks. The permits provide a permanent record of the work performed and inspections conducted on the project. This information will be needed if you ever decide to sell your home. Whether you do the work yourself or hire a contractor, obtaining permits protects your biggest asset, which is your home, by ensuring that the work done meets minimum code requirements.

2. What codes are applicable?

Residential plans are reviewed under the most recent adopted version of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code. For a complete list of codes please reference Codes in Effect.

3. Is there any work I can do without a permit?

There are some projects that do not require a building permit such as a small storage shed or play equipment. Work exempt from a permit still needs to meet building code requirements as well as local code requirements (setbacks, height, etc.).

4. How do I get a permit for work that’s already been done?

In these situations our primary goal is to work with a homeowner to ensure that the home is safe and to help you protect your most valuable investment. If a homeowner discovers they did not obtain a permit when required, they do not necessarily have to tear the project down and start over. Plans can be submitted that show the work that was done without a permit. If the alteration can meet the applicable codes, it can be approved, however our inspectors will not approve something they cannot see and may require small sections of wall or roof covering be removed to verify the construction meets the code. There can be no guarantee that some changes may need to be made, and some may not be easy to accomplish. Penalties can be levied for those who refuse to comply with the law.

5. Can I prepare my own plans?

Yes, you can. If you have not designed a project before or if you are not familiar with code requirements, you may want to consider hiring a design professional. Keep in mind that the more complete your plans are the faster your plans will be reviewed and approved.

6. How detailed do the plans need to be?

Your plans must clearly show all the work you intend to do on the building as well as the existing conditions. They must also show where the building sits on your property in relationship to property lines and other buildings on the site. The plans need to provide enough detail that would allow a contractor to construct the project from start to finish without additional direction. The Plan Requirements Brochure will provide useful information.

7. How do I determine my property line location? Isn’t my front property line at the edge of the street?

Before building a new structure or fence, it is important to know where the property lines are. Property lines are often not located at the edge of the street or even the edge of the sidewalk. A typical street right-of-way includes room for the paved street, sidewalks, and street trees. Also, it is important not to assume that a fence between neighbors is on the property line.

For sites within the city limits, Public Works staff may be able to determine the approximate distance of the property line from the street curb or sidewalk. If the original property pins (typically a metal post with a plastic tie or cap attached at the top) are still in place, you may be able to locate them by using a metal detector. To determine precise locations of property lines, you may need to engage the services of a private land surveyor.

8. Where do I get a site plan?

Find a comprehensive answer to this question.

9. If I own the property can I do the work myself?

If you own, reside in, or will reside in the completed structure then you can do the work yourself. Please contact the Construction Contractors Board (CCB) for more information.